African Ethics and Death: Moral Status and Human Dignity in Ubuntu Thinking

This book explores the concepts of moral status and human dignity in African philosophy and applies them to the moral problems associated with death. It challenges the criticism of moral status and investigates how moral personhood is defined in African ethical theories. It also examines the medical context, including euthanasia and moral obligations towards dead human bodies. The book offers an African axiological contribution to debates on global ethics and moral philosophy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 116 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate concepts of moral status and human dignity in African philosophy, offering a comprehensive analysis that applies these principles to the moral dilemmas surrounding death. It begins by addressing the criticism and rejection of moral status in African philosophy, challenging the notion that Africans do not recognize the inherent value of human life. The book then proceeds to explore how moral personhood is defined in African ethical theories, examining the criteria for determining which entities possess full moral status or moral personhood and deserve to be accorded full ethical consideration.

In the medical context, the book examines whether an African theory of moral status permits or forbids euthanasia. It also explores the moral obligations we have towards dead human bodies, raising questions about the proper treatment and disposal of remains. Throughout, the book makes a significant African axiological contribution to ongoing debates on global ethics and moral philosophy.

This book will appeal to researchers across a wide range of disciplines, including philosophy and African studies. Its insightful examination of the ethical implications of death provides valuable insights into the rich philosophical and cultural traditions of Africa, contributing to a broader understanding of ethical issues on a global scale.

Weight: 385g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032658407